Description
This Rotisserie Chicken Pasta is a comforting and creamy dish combining tender shredded rotisserie chicken with al dente pasta and a rich, flavorful sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it uses simple ingredients like garlic, onion, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese to create a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and customizable with spinach or peas.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Protein
- 8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or your choice)
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins and Garnish
- 1 cup baby spinach or frozen peas (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add Chicken: Add the shredded rotisserie chicken to the skillet and stir to mix with the onions and garlic. Heat through for about 1–2 minutes.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
- Combine with Pasta and Vegetables: Stir in the cooked pasta and add the baby spinach or frozen peas if using. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated and the vegetables are warmed through.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of freshness.
Notes
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit dietary needs.
- For a lighter option, substitute half-and-half or evaporated milk instead of heavy cream.
- This recipe works well with leftover turkey or grilled chicken as an alternative to rotisserie chicken.
